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<\/p>\n\u201cIn agriculture, you learn how much time matters,\u201d says Witdouck. \u201cWhen it comes to a heart emergency, every minute counts. Families across rural southern Alberta deserve life-saving care without leaving their community. We\u2019re proud to do our part.\u201d<\/p>\n
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This with contribution, Bringing Hearts Home has raised $26.6 million, which is 89 per cent of the way to its goal.<\/p>\n
Upon completion, the cardiac unit at Chinook Regional Hospital would include:<\/p>\n
Two cardiac catheterization labs
\nTwo electrophysiology labs
\nExpanded cardiac diagnostics, including echo, stress testing, and Holter monitoring
\nDedicated cardiac CT and MRI imaging capacity
\nA modernized ICU and redeveloped Coronary Care Unit with enhanced patient safety and infection-control design<\/p>\n
Dr. Sayeh Zielke, Physician Lead for Cardiac Services in the South Zone, says the mortality rate surrounding cardiac care is about 30 per cent higher in southern Alberta than in the rest of the province. It is the leading cause of death in this region, which is also not the case elsewhere in Alberta.<\/p>\n
This is partly due to a lack of specialized services.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis project will fundamentally change cardiac care for southern Alberta. We are deeply grateful to the Witdouck family for standing with rural families who deserve the very best care close to home,\u201d says Zielke.<\/p>\n
Earlier this week, the Alberta Government announced that it will spend $59 million over three years to enhance cardiac and ICU services at Chinook Regional Hospital. It is not directly tied to Bringing Hearts Home.<\/p>\n